HISTORY OF THE MEERHAY FLOCK OF PORTLAND SHEEP - Continued

These included three from the Cotswold Farm Park, Benborough (p0768), Benborough (p1710 and a ram Bemborough Goodley 2nd (p1710). At the same time we bought Baldi 21t of Ash (P00387) and Marsden P1215.
In the early days we were lucky enough to have the help of Bill Woods, an experienced shepherd. At first it seemed to take years to build up a flock. So many ram lambs! In those days there was quite a problem with teeth and we have over the years tried to correct this fault. We also established in our minds type of sheep we wanted to breed. I prefer the smaller type of sheep. Our one Marsden ewe was prolific and has had a strong influence. We either bought in or exchanged rams which also were an influence, notably B George ll(p 3896) Fontmell Faieie (p1142), and two Merry hill rams who both left their mark. For the last three years we have used our homebred Meerhay Mel (p7751). He goes back to one of our original 5, Baldi of Ash.

Our land is on the southern slope of Beaminster Down some of it is quite hilly and often wet. We decided in 1989 that we needed a sheep house. This means that we bring the ewes in during April at night & feed them until they lamb in early May. We can then gradually let them out on to a small paddock and finally back on to the rest of the farm. The wet ground means that regular foot baths and a strict worming routine are needed.

Regular visits from Michelle and Norman Jones have I hope maintained breed standards and one visit in particular resulted in Meerhay Norman taking up temporary residence with the Southover flock. Michelle’s constant advice and enthusiasm have proved invaluable. We are especially grateful for an introduction to George Elliot who has in recent years helped us out on numerous occasions. We are also lucky to have have had the help of Caroline &, Ian Bain who have helped us over the years with the flock.

Derek Rashley with his Champion Meerhay ewe

In 2003 our flock had mounted up to nearly 60 and we were coming to the conclusion that a flock reduction was indicated. During a chance visit to the Sherborne Castle show we met Jim Partridge, who put us in touch with Dorian Diment who was looking for a flock of sheep to go back to Portland. So 40 of our ewes made their way back to the land of their forbears. The day of their departure brought a small film crew who were interested to hear the story of our sheep returning home. Pictures in the local papers and on local TV followed. I am happy to say that they have settled down well and have caused a lot of local interest. They will be grazing by Portland Bill this summer. As the result of our inclusion in the book 'Eat Dorset' we now supply the Knoll House Hotel, at Studland Dorset with our lamb.

We have retained 20 ewes and Meerhay Mel (p. 7751), now 6 years old and with magnificent horns, will stay with us. The sculptress Lady Marcia Astor has recently sculpted him in bronze. An additional ram bought from the Jones’ Southover flock has provided additional good bone and temperment. We were thrilled this year that Derick Rashley & Mrs. Tooze took the championship at Sherborne Castle with a Meerhay ewe - which Derek had from us in 2004

“Twenty years of breeding Portland Sheep have brought much pleasure and the greatest of all has been the sight of our sheep back on Portland.”